Facets about Vesuvanite

Vesuvanite Information

Types

Vesuvianite, also known as idocrase, is a mineral with a complex chemical formula. It can have various colors, including green, yellow, brown, and blue. Some varieties include:

• California Jade - a green vesuvianite found in California, USA
• Chrome Vesuvianite - a green vesuvianite colored by chromium
• Magadi-type Vesuvianite - a blue variety found in Tanzania
• Wiluite - a yellow vesuvianite found in California, USA

Localities

Vesuvianite can be found in various locations around the world, including:

• Canada
• Italy
• Japan
• Kenya
• Mexico
• Tanzania
• USA

Physical Properties

Vesuvianite has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 3.3-3.5. It has a vitreous to resinous luster and can be transparent to opaque. Its crystal structure is tetragonal.

Optical Properties

Vesuvianite has a uniaxial positive optical character and a refractive index of 1.700-1.750. It can exhibit pleochroism and dispersion.

Healing Properties

Vesuvianite is said to have various healing properties, including:

• Enhancing creativity and self-expression
• Bringing calm and balance to the mind and emotions
• Stimulating the immune system and metabolism
• Helping with depression, anxiety, and stress
• Aiding in spiritual growth and transformation

Uses

Vesuvianite has various uses, including:

• As a gemstone for jewelry
• As a decorative stone
• For metaphysical and spiritual purposes
• As a mineral specimen for collectors
• In industrial applications such as refractories and ceramics